Meaning
Claiming the next opportunity.
Cultural Background
Danes rely heavily on 'nummersystemer' (number systems) in public places. Even if there are only two people, they might still use a ticket machine to ensure fairness. In the US, claiming your turn is often more vocal and assertive. In Denmark, 'Det er min tur' is a calm statement of fact because the system usually supports you. Both cultures value the queue, but in Japan, the staff often takes more responsibility for identifying the next person, whereas in Denmark, the customer is expected to speak up with 'Det er min tur'. In some Middle Eastern cultures, queuing is more fluid and social. The rigid 'Det er min tur' might feel a bit cold compared to the more conversational way of determining who is next.
The 'Til At' Trick
Always follow 'tur' with 'til at' if you want to add an action. It makes you sound much more fluent.
Don't say 'Jeg er'
English speakers always say 'Jeg er min tur'. Remember, in Danish, the 'turn' is the subject, not you!
Meaning
Claiming the next opportunity.
The 'Til At' Trick
Always follow 'tur' with 'til at' if you want to add an action. It makes you sound much more fluent.
Don't say 'Jeg er'
English speakers always say 'Jeg er min tur'. Remember, in Danish, the 'turn' is the subject, not you!
The Bakery Rule
Even if the shop is empty, look for a ticket machine. If you don't have a ticket, it's never 'your turn'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to say 'It is my turn'.
Det ___ min tur.
We use the verb 'at være' (to be) in the present tense 'er'.
Which sentence correctly says 'It is my turn to cook'?
Choose the correct option:
The correct pattern is 'tur til at' + verb.
Match the Danish phrase with its English meaning.
Match the following:
Possessive pronouns change the meaning of whose turn it is.
Complete the dialogue at the bakery.
Ekspedient: 'Nummer 25?' Kunde: '___'
This is the standard way to respond when your number is called.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDet ___ min tur.
We use the verb 'at være' (to be) in the present tense 'er'.
Choose the correct option:
The correct pattern is 'tur til at' + verb.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Possessive pronouns change the meaning of whose turn it is.
Ekspedient: 'Nummer 25?' Kunde: '___'
This is the standard way to respond when your number is called.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, but it's better to say 'Må jeg få ordet?' or 'Jeg vil gerne tilføje noget'. 'Det er min tur' can sound a bit like a child in a formal setting.
'Tur' is for a sequence (taking turns), while 'gang' is for frequency (how many times).
No, it is considered perfectly normal and even necessary in Denmark to defend your place in the queue.
You say 'Hvis tur er det?'
Related Phrases
Det er mig
similarIt is me
At skiftes
builds onTo take turns
En gåtur
similarA walk
Først til mølle
specialized formFirst come, first served
Min omgang
specialized formMy round (of drinks)
